Keeping in view the negative media reports related to anti-Romeo drive and cow vigilantism, the new UP DGP Sulkhan Singh has issued a set of dos and don’ts that are to be followed by the police force in the state. One of the directives is that people indulging in rowdy behavior need not be arrested; rather, their parents or guardians should be contacted and told about their actions. In case of cow protection and other forms of vigilantism, the DGP has stated that all such persons who take law in their hands should be ready to face stern action by police officials. Stern action would also be taken against anyone who indulges in violent activities or tries to spread anarchy.

The directives and dos and don’ts were given by the DGP to all district level officials. The meeting was attended by most senior police officials of the state. The directives were given through video conferencing. It may be recalled that the anti-Romeo drives have come under strong criticism after reports indicated several instances of innocent couples being harassed by anti-Romeo squads. The DGP has also directed police officers to check law and order in their area. He has asked the state police to effectively shoulder their various responsibilities such as maintaining traffic movement, implementing road discipline, acting against encroachers, and displaying appropriate behavior with the general public.